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INGRID PICHETTE
Born: Jul 06, 1930
Date of Passing: Dec 28, 2015
Offer Condolences or Memory Make a donation to Winnipeg Humane Society
INGRID PICHETTE (nee SCHIEGEL) July 6, 1930 - December 28, 2015 A. INGRID F. PICHETTE - It is with profound sorrow that our family announces the passing of our mother and grandmother. Strong and fiercely determined Mom had always rallied back from recurring pneumonia, but God had a different plan this time. With family by her side she closed her eyes one final time in the late evening of Monday, December 28, 2015. She leaves to forever cherish her memory her son Raymond Pichette; daughters Michelle Pichette Breault and Nicolle Brockie, her grandchildren, Stephanie and Michael Breault; Trevor Brockie (Clare) and her beloved dog and constant companion, Bailey. She was predeceased by her parents Anastazius and Margarete Schiegel (nee Rolle), her brothers Willi, Kurt, and Wolfgang; her mother's sister, Lenchen (Leni) Duschnat, Dan Hildebrand (spouse of Nicolle), former husband George J. Pichette. Ingrid was our mother, friend, unfaltering supporter and cheerleader. She cared with absolute unconditional love. She worked tirelessly for the betterment of her family always placing her own needs last. Her kind spirit and generosity left no neighbour alone at Christmas; there were always a seat at the table. Ingrid emigrated from Bremen, Germany to Winnipeg in 1954. Her first position was as a live-in nanny for a family in Norwood. Soon after she began her career in healthcare, working for the Canadian Red Cross blood bank program. In the 1970's she worked at the Rehab Centre at the HSC followed by 20 years at St. Boniface Hospital in the Emergency and Physiotherapy departments, retiring from the Occupational Therapy Unit in McEwan Centre. Her teaching degree, love of sport and exceptional athleticism led to a Physical Education teaching position at St. Mary's Academy from the mid 60's until 1973. It was there that her love of gymnastics continued, igniting her desire to develop recreational and subsequently, competitive gymnastics in Winnipeg. While she worked in healthcare by day, she began teaching evening programs for St. Boniface Parks and Recreaction. Soon enrolments and waiting lists exploded and The (Purple) Panthers Gymnastics Club was born! Other clubs had sprung up and competitive gymnastics in Winnipeg was embraced. Panthers grew; a permanent facility was needed and the parents association undertook the challenge. Ingrid brought to light the talents of hundreds of young girls including Olympians Bonnie and Lynette Wittmeier. Panthers continues to thrive to this day under the successor coaching team. Panthers Gym Club will always be Ingrid's legacy. Her dedication to her grandchildren is unparallel. One could not ask for a more caring grandparent. Her love for her Bailey was immeasurable; her garden was a sanctuary nurtured with love. Her sense of style and fashion is legendary. She had a beautiful voice and as a choir member, performed for Pope John Paul II's visit to Winnipeg in 1984. Her passion for the arts followed her throughout her life and enriched the lives of her family. She was a patron of the symphony, opera and ballet. With tireless spirit she found time to volunteer; Jocelyn House; church soup kitchens; relief work with disabled children, and as a greeter at the Buhler Art Gallery in St. Boniface Hospital. She devoted countless hours to development of elite and recreational gymnastics through organizing, coaching and judging. Literally hundreds of children have benefited from the innumerable hours she spent at her kitchen table well into the early morning hours scheduling and planning. Ingrid. Mother. Grandmother. Friend. There could not have been a better mother in the world, it would simply be impossible. We are heartbroken, we are proud, and because of you we are strong. We love you and we will miss you always. Special thanks to Dr. T. Wong (St. Boniface), Dr. R. Warrington (HSC), and their dedicated staff, also to Marilyn and Gilles Marius, Laurel and Frank Johnston, her loving friends and neighbours. A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, January 13, 2016 at 6:30 p.m. at St. Mary's Academy, main entrance at 550 Wellington Crescent, (administration doors). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Winnipeg Humane Society or the Bursary Fund of St. Mary's Academy. E.J. COUTU & CO. FUNERAL DIRECTORS 204-253-5086 ejcoutu.com
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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 09, 2016
Condolences & Memories (4 entries)
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When my mother, Elfrieda was alive and still living at home, she looked forward to visiting with Ingrid regularly. As a result of their friendship that started the day they met, both having had their 2nd child, they were roommates in the women's pavilion on Notre Dame, Winnipeg. We kids grew up with her family and spent many hours playing with Raymond, Michelle and Nicole. My fond memory of Ingrid was seeing her riding her bike throughout St. Boniface and St. Vital. She was stunning in her white outfit and had heads turning to get a glimpse of this beautiful woman. We will always be grateful for the many years of friendship our mom and Ingrid had. To her family from ours,we send our condolences. THE BERARO FAMILY. - Posted by: Rosemary Beraro (Family Friend) on: Jan 25, 2016
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I was fortunate to begin judging women's artistic gymnastics when it was championed by excellent coaches and builders; one of those champions was Ingrid Pichette. As an official and a volunteer in the sport, I was able to witness the passion and dedication that Ingrid displayed as well as the overall excellence of the Panther gymnasts. Ingrid was also a warm and lovely person and she will be missed very much! My most sincere condolences to all of her family. - Posted by: Lynn Smith (Gymnastics Colleague and Gymnastics Judge) on: Jan 15, 2016
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There are some people in your life that just have an impact and become unforgettable. Mrs. Pichette is one of those. Mrs. Pichette was my very first gymnastics coach, and she built the foundation on which my future successes were based. Not only did she teach gymnastics, she inspired an excellence and dedication which transferred into all other areas of my life. I have not seen Mrs. Pichette in many years, but the effect she had on my life, starting when I was a young girl, remains. The memories are warm, encouraging, and inspiring still. I know that many other people have also been touched by Mrs. Pichette's graciousness and kindness. This effect that she has had on my life and others will be her enduring legacy that we can all pass on. It has been my absolute honor to have known her, and I am so grateful to God for allowing her to be part of my life, and mine hers. My prayer now is that I can continue to let her influence make me more loving and giving, without ceasing, as she was. Nicolle, Michelle, & Raymond - what a treasure your mom was! I hope knowing how much she meant to all of us will bring you comfort. I know you will miss her so much. - Posted by: Bonnie Wittmeier () on: Jan 10, 2016
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I'm so sorry to hear about your Mother's passing. You were truly blessed to have had such a wonderful Mother. My condolences to you both and your whole family! - Posted by: Christine Krucko (Friend of Nicole and Michelle) on: Jan 09, 2016